Broncos Game Plan: How Denver matches against the 49ers, injury report and predictions

GAME PLAN WHEN THE 49ERS RUN San Francisco is without starting running Matt Breida (ankle) and will rely on Jeff Wilson, an undrafted rookie recently promoted from the practice squad, with 22 rushes for 94 yards in two game appearances this season. The 49ers managed just 66 yards on the ground last week at Seattle. That bodes well for a Denver defense that hasn’t allowed a 100-yard rusher since Week 6 against Todd Gurley and the Rams. However, watch out for the versatility of 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk. Edge: Broncos. WHEN THE 49ERS PASS The 49ers are on quarterback No. 3 this season: Jimmy Garappolo (ACL) to C.J. Beathard (wrist) to Nick Mullens. The results haven’t been pretty at 2-10, but Mullens, undrafted in 2017 and promoted from San Francisco’s practice squad, has proven capable. He’s completed 64.5 percent of his passes with a 91.5 rating — including 414 yards through the air — last week against the Seahawks. Denver is without its top cornerback Chris Harris (leg) and must account for 49ers’ tight end George Kittle’s receiving ability. But San Francisco’s passing game has been mostly dormant this season. Edge: Broncos. WHEN THE BRONCOS RUN Running back Phillip Lindsay eclipsed 150 carries this season with a 6.08 yard average — third highest in the NFL since 1970. Royce Freeman provides added muscle. Devontae Booker brings pass-catching talents. And, with a resurgent offensive line, the Broncos run-game has flourished. San Francisco ranks No. 15 in the NFL with 108 rushing yards… [Read full story]